This national holiday aims to transform Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s teachings into individual and community action, working towards his vision of a beloved community. Volunteer Arlington honors this day by connecting individuals of all ages across Arlington and Northern Virginia to engage in meaningful service.
Save the date: Monday, January 18, 2027
At our MLK Day of Service opening program, we present our annual Beloved Community Award to recognize an exemplary leader who has embodied Dr. King’s vision of building a “beloved community.”
Nominations for the 2027 award are due by Wednesday, December 2, 2026.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for a variety of service projects on Monday, January 19, 2026, including the opening program at Washington-Liberty High School.
Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
Location: Washington-Liberty High School (1301 N. Stafford St. Arlington, enter through door #1 on the N. Stafford St. side of the building) and additional locations
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Schedule:
Parking at Washington-Liberty High School: Parking is available on the street and in the I-66 parking garage located beside Washington-Liberty.
Accessibility questions: Contact Brenda Nardone.
Each person in a group that wants to participate in MLK Day of Service needs to register for the opportunity. For opportunities that welcome children, adults may register up to two children per account. Anyone age 13 and older should create their own account to register.
Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. The first 1,000 people to arrive will receive a free t-shirt. You can participate in our volunteer fair and photobooth opportunities prior to the opening program starting at 9:00 a.m.
Yes, each person that wants to participate in MLK Day of Service needs to register. This helps us track the capacity for each opportunity. Adults may register up to two children per account.
No food or drinks will be provided. You are welcome to bring a water bottle. No food or drink is allowed in the auditorium.
If there is inclement weather that impacts the event, we will post updates on this page by 6:00 a.m. on Monday, January 19.
Affordable Homes & Communities
Arlington Public Schools
Searle Business Solutions, LLC
If you are interested in sponsoring the 2026 MLK Day of Service, please review the sponsorship packages.
Thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday, January 18, 2025 for our 8th Annual MLK Day of Service. Watch the video below to see highlights from the 2024 event.
The MLK Day of Service event is hosted by Volunteer Arlington, a public-private partnership between the Leadership Center of Arlington and Arlington County.